Berkeley Blog

Since long before STEM learning (science, technology, engineering and math) rocketed into the public consciousness, the Lawrence Hall of Science has been a favorite destination for Berkeley locals and visiting families.

The Lawrence Hall of Science was an idea before
its time. Since long before STEM learning (science, technology, engineering and
math) rocketed into the public consciousness, the Lawrence Hall of Science has
been a favorite destination for Berkeley locals and visiting families. The
Hall’s hands-on exhibits and classes are a tactile introduction to the wonders
of science and technology.

Established in 1968 in honor of the famous Nobel Prize-winning
physicist and Berkeley resident Ernest Lawrence, the Lawrence Hall of Science’s
hulking concrete structure is an unmissable landmark of the Berkeley Hills. The
building’s bunker-like exterior hides within its walls a spellbinding
educational experience that brings the technical workings of the world to life.

The family fun starts from the courtyard outside the main entrance,
where an unusual play structure, a massive strand of DNA, sits with its double
helix shape acting as a sort of obstacle course. Across the courtyard, the climbable
“Pheena the Fin Whale” sculpture is an example of the living masterpieces that
DNA shapes. Hop on Pheena’s back and passersby might confuse you with Aquaman.

A multitude of permanent and rotating exhibits inside the
spacious halls cover a wide range of scientific and technical fields. “Science
on a Sphere,” a remarkable 360 degree projection system, displays accurate
weather and climate data on a large suspended globe. Exhibits like “Design
Quest” and the “Ingenuity Lab” challenge young engineers to think creatively to
solve unique problems.

For those families looking to get a little bit more out of
their visit, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers workshops, classes and camps
that go in-depth on certain subjects.

For parents, the Lawrence Hall of Science is not just a
convenient activity to keep the kids happy. Who doesn’t enjoy a planetarium?
The Hall’s 3D Theater screens daily films as well, many featuring stunning
nature photography (David Attenborough voice-overs not guaranteed).

It’s more than that, however. For many parents, the thrill of
discovery in their children’s faces makes the trip to the Lawrence Hall of
Science on of the most fun things to do in Berkeley.

If the Hall’s thrilling hands-on exhibits and STEM learning
opportunities aren’t enough to draw you into the hills, then the panoramic
views from its expansive deck should be. These are some of the most
awe-inspiring sights in the entire Bay Area, a sweeping westward view of San
Francisco and its famous bridges. Taking in the sunset from this vantage is not
something you or your family will soon forget.